Cllr Eugene McManus represents Redbridge ward, elected in 2024. Deeply rooted in his community, Eugene has a long record of local involvement — he runs a hospitality venue, serves as a school governor, and is chairman of both a local football club and a city charity. Among his lighter claims to fame is having managed a team that once beat one coached by Harry Redknapp.
Eugene’s motivation for standing as a councillor came from frustration at the obstacles and decisions that too often held communities back. Determined to change that, he stood for election to give residents a stronger voice and to help remove the barriers that prevent positive local change.
He is passionate about improving opportunities and facilities in Redbridge and across Southampton — from sport and youth engagement to better services and community development. Eugene believes in practical, hands-on solutions that make a real difference to people’s lives, and he is committed to ensuring the council delivers outcomes that residents can see and feel in their everyday surroundings.